Illegal Miners Trapped Underground in South Africa

In South Africa's Stilfontein, a standoff continues between police and hundreds of illegal miners trapped underground in an abandoned mine shaft, leading to emotional scenes as desperate relatives await news of their loved ones. The police have blocked supplies of food and water to force the miners, known as 'zama-zamas', to surface for arrest, resulting in over 1,000 miners having already emerged as the crackdown intensifies. Concerns grow over the health of those still underground, as reports indicate some miners have resorted to consuming vinegar and toothpaste for sustenance. Family members, many of whom are immigrants, have pleaded for government intervention, but officials maintain they will not assist what they term 'criminals', with some ministers suggesting they will 'smoke them out'. Volunteers have begun assisting at the site, but authorities remain firm on their approach. The situation highlights the ongoing issue of illegal mining in South Africa, driven by poverty and the search for leftover gold in disused mines.